To help you decide, laid out here an easy-to-understand description of the most important things you’ll need to consider.
1. Which deductible should one choose?
Choosing a higher deductible will lower your monthly plan price, but that means your out-of-pocket costs will be higher when your pet needs vet care. Choosing a lower deductible will increase your monthly price, but will definitely lower your out-of-pocket costs.
2. What exactly are the coverage levels?
The rising costs of veterinary medicine can oftentimes make low coverage limits unrealistic. You should choose a plan that covers the true costs of unexpected illness and accidents.
3. What does the plan actually cover?
Look for plans that cover accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions.
Accidents - Common accidents such as cuts and broken legs should be covered. Also, look for a plan which will help pay for surgery needed to remove swallowed objects.
Illnesses - Curable conditions and chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, should be covered.
Hereditary and congenital conditions* – Examples include hip and elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, epilepsy, IVDD, luxating patella and also cherry eye.
Routine Care - This optional coverage is traditionally available for an extra price, and should help pay for preventive measures like annual exams, vaccinations, blood work and dental cleanings.
4. How is your reimbursement calculated when you so file a claim?
Generally, reimbursement is calculated as a percentage of a benefit schedule which does limit the amount the insurance company is willing to pay.
5. Are you able to choose any veterinarian?
Search for plans that allow you to visit: Any licensed veterinarian in the world
Emergency clinics – With after hours
Specialists – Just in case your pet needs to be seen by an ophthalmologist (eye specialist), or oncologist (cancer specialist), for example.
6. Who will determine your pet’s treatment?
We believe you and your veterinarian should determine the best course of treatment for your pet(s.) Choose a plan which doesn’t limit your choices by using what is called a benefit schedule
7. Is anything excluded?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered by any pet insurance provider at all, whether or not the conditions were previously diagnosed or treated. Be sure the provider you end up choosing is transparent and clearly lists what’s not covered.
8. Will the policy provide lifetime coverage?
In the event of a chronic problem such as diabetes or cancer, it’s very important to know your plan will continue to cover the problem after your policy renews. Otherwise, illnesses may be considered “pre-existing” when it’s time to renew your policy.
9. Who will your veterinarian recommend?
Your vet’s staff members have heard all the news, good and bad, from al l the other policyholders. You should ask them which pet insurance providers they recommend.
10. What type of experience should I expect?
Be sure to choose a company with high customer satisfaction scores, fast claims processing and fast reimbursement. When you have a question or need help with a claim, having a pet insurance company which employs pet lovers who truly understand can make all the difference.
We sure hope these ten suggestions leave you better prepared to make an educated choice in your pet insurance coverage and policy.